Melliferous

Melliferous

məˈlif(ə)rəs

Adjective

  • Yielding or producing honey.

Get a new word in your inbox every day.

By subscribing you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Example Sentences

“A patch of melliferous flowers in Clint’s backyard seemed to attract every bee in the county.”

“Behind the restaurant, there was a patio surrounded by melliferous flowers.”

“My melliferous hive can produce about 50 pounds of honey a year.”

Word Origin

Latin, mid-17th century

Why this word?

“Melliferous” means “producing honey,” but it doesn’t apply just to bees and their hives. The adjective also applies to the plants that produce the substances collected by bees. It comes from the Latin “mellifer” (“honey bearing”), with “mel” meaning “sweet” and “fer” meaning “bearing.” The word is similar to the better-known adjective “mellifluous,” which means “sweet or musical; pleasant to hear” and is sometimes used to describe voices and sounds.

  • More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    Subscribe to Better Report to receive tips and tricks that will save you money, maximize your time, and improve your life.

    Subscribe to Better Report
    By clicking “Subscribe” you’re agreeing to Better Report Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Learn a new word Bokeh

ˈbəʊkeɪ